New book shows best of TJ, with a party to match

Before you roll your eyes, cry “hype” or cite crime statistics from 2008, give the city a chance, says Olivier Dalle.

Dalle has just published a bilingual book called “Tijuana / 22000,” part of a series about neighborhoods and cities around the world. “We’re celebrating the fact that Tijuana is really back after all these years that were so difficult,” Dalle said.

Embraced by an elegant black softcover, with the city’s silhouette outlined in black and orange, the book features works from two writers and two photographers.

The photos show a Tijuana that doesn’t make it into tourist guides or gruesome news reports — street vendors, kids, fish, a coffee meister, a puppeteer, and a diva with Hepburn sunglasses.

Friday evening its creators are celebrating with a launch party at Tijuana’s Cecut cultural center. “We expect 200 to 500 people,” Dalle said.

The event will start at 6, with remarks and the formal unveiling at 7 p.m. The book,, normally $25, will be on sale at a discount.

And after that? “Party,” he said. The event is free and open to the public.

Dalle said it took three years to finish the book, a lucky break because now its timing is better.

The frat boy party scene has given way to people who aren’t swayed by stereotypes, and people who were once drawn by drugs and prostitutes are staying away because that underworld turned more dangerous, he said.

What’s left? “People who are interested in what Tijuana has to offer in terms of authentic, local life.”

People, he said, who view Tijuana’s cultural offerings as an asset for San Diego, and not just the other way around.